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Annual Report Fiscal Year 1999–2000

in 1999. The season also set a record for the lowest number of hunting accidents in any modern spring turkey season. There were no fatal accidents and only four non-fatal hunting accidents.

Established otter trapping zones to permit increased harvest of otters in areas where they are found to be causing damage to property or sport fisheries. Smaller harvests are permitted in areas where otters pose no problems. River otters are flourishing in Missouri, and anglers and fish farmers in some parts of the state have complained of otter depredations. In other areas, otters have yet to fully occupy suitable habitat, and problems are few.

Initiated a study of flathead catfish populations in the Missouri River. Using tagged flathead catfish, Department fisheries biologists launched the study to determine what percentage of flathead catfish in the Missouri River are harvested by anglers. Data produced by the study will provide better understanding of catfish populations in the river and, ultimately, improve fishing.

Opened Combs Lake at Little River Conservation Area, creating valuable public fishing opportunities for anglers in Dunklin County and in surrounding Bootheel communities. The 150-acre lake was initially stocked with 1,000 16-inch channel catfish, and later received additional stockings of redear sunfish, bluegill, black crappie and largemouth bass. Combs Lake has a boat ramp with courtesy dock, a parking area, a fishing dock and privies. The Conservation Department placed almost 200 Christmas trees in the lake to provide fish cover around the floating dock, a concrete platform and four rip-rap jetties.

Conservation Department began a walleye initiative to expand walleye fishing opportunities around the state. The agency selected several lakes and six rivers that showed the most promise as walleye fisheries. These waters were to be managed and stocked so that more anglers could enjoy catching walleye. The plan calls for stocking millions of small walleye in the targeted rivers and lakes.

Conservation Department programs ensure wildlife populations that are in harmony with habitat and human enjoyment. Examples are: management of about 501,066 acres of public land, research and population monitoring of game and non-game species, wetland development, wildlife restoration and wildlife damage control.

Fisheries - $13,180,726

Fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Missouri. In 1999, the Conservation Department sold 1,494,924 resident and non-resident fishing permits and tags of all types to 909,026 people. The agency produced 3,660,117 fish for stocking in various waters and opened the Lost Valley Fish Hatchery. The Conservation Department manages 849 public impoundments totaling 277,055 acres of water.

Natural History - $2,101,983

Coordinates and provides overall and specialized services to the Department's natural areas, endangered species programs, wildlife diversity and natural community conservation and management programs, as well as programs to promote public appreciation of natural resources.

Law Enforcement - $15,383,151

Paid for law enforcement, resource management, information, education and public service contact activities conducted by 216 conservation agents. Conservation agents, along with 1,850 volunteer instructors, conducted 994 hunter education classes and certified more than 30,000 students.

In lieu of tax payments, which included levee and drainage district taxes, totaled $639,004.82 to 112 counties. The four largest payments were to St. Louis ($48,116.95), Holt ($39,568.44), Howard ($28,204.12) and Shannon ($27,074.59) counties. Since 1980, more than $7.7 million has been returned to Missouri counties under the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program.

Construction & Development - $17,693,355

Paid for outstate service centers, hatchery improvements, wetland development, river access site development and other construction.

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MDC protects and manages Missouri's fish, forest, and wildlife resources. We also facilitate your participation in resource-management activities, and we provide opportunities for you to use, enjoy and learn about nature. Read more about our mission.